eggbowl | [Dohalim/Zhongli] You're standing next to me...

[Dohalim/Zhongli] You're standing next to me...

[it started out as vague dreams of what seemed to be a lifetime ago. something so foreign and yet familiar. even in his dreams, he can almost feel it, taste it, smell it. like warm stone on a summer’s day, like a strong embrace holding him steady. and in every dream, he sees the same person with golden eyes and a soft smile and all he can feel is a warm fondness for them.

who is he, Dohalim would ask himself, as he would reach out to him.

and that point is when his dream would turn into a nightmare; in a flash, all he can see is carnage, and that person who he’d felt that fondness for would look at him with a frenzied fire in those golden pools, his face contorted into what seems to be pure, unadulterated rage. why… he can feel the fear piercing his heart, along with a certain pain he can’t quite put his finger on, that he has to watch this man fall into his wrath and despair.

”My apologies…” he remembers saying, before he would wake up with a start, brow damp with sweat as he would sit up in his bed. at first, that dream wasn’t nearly as frequent, but now, it seems like it’s occurring every night. what does it mean? who is that man in his dreams?

what happened?

come morning, however, that dream becomes a passing thought, as it usually does, as he starts his day. it’s only a dream; he doesn’t need to dwell on it.

there had been reports of a sudden spike of astral energy in Traslida Highway, one that Dohalim had taken upon himself to investigate (much to the chagrin of his guardsmen). if it has anything to do with earth astral energy, who better than the lord whose affinity of that very element? if anything goes wrong, he would be the most capable of containing it, at least. what mattered most is that the citizens of his realm are safe.

but it’s strange, as he walks out of Viscint, that he doesn’t need to be told where the anomaly is. he can… almost hear a quiet whisper, indiscernible in its words, but pulling him towards where he needs to go. it’s as if he’s lost all autonomy of his body, falling into a sort of trance, but the pull doesn’t feel malicious in its intent. in fact, it feels almost as familiar as the feeling in his dreams; he has to wonder why that is.

as he approaches the new rock formation in the Tietal Plains, Dohalim strains to listen to guardsman speaking to him; something about how it had appeared overnight, and that they had deployed a small platoon to stop anyone from entering it. but the whispers nearly drown him out, beckoning Dohalim to walk through the portal. it’s reckless, he knows, to walk into something without even an inkling of what awaits on the other side, but nothing in him tells him to stop as he steps forward towards the barrier. he holds a hand up, as if to feel the energy radiating off it, and before anyone could pull him back, Dohalim steps forward. he hears one of the guards call out his name, only for it to be muted once he’s on the other side.

just where is he…?]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[The smallest of positives is that Morax was always one to make sure Melqal had enough to eat. Sometimes it was more difficult than others - the crafty Renan certainly had no shortage of ways to weaken his lover's resolve - but still. The elemental has always been a worrier.]

Mm. It's understandable. [listening quietly, Morax considers their situation. Keeping his circumstances hidden is best, especially when it comes to Melqal, isn't it? But it's a relief that Dohalim isn't unwilling to chat. Hesitation he can work around.] small talk... is not my strong suit, but history and some arts I think I can manage. It's... a start, at least.

And a safe conversation, I imagine.

Yes, it would be, I think.

[lifting his hand up, Melqal brushes his fingers through the soft locks of Morax's hair that had fallen into his face, to the braid hanging over his shoulder. the darkness of the strands reminds him of the most beautiful obsidian, highlighted by the most gilded of gold. honestly, befitting for the earthen spirit. Melqal takes a moment to take him all in again, admiring every feature he can lay his eyes on. there's a yearning in his soul to let the elemental take him like he's done so many times before but... slowly. they must move slowly, for Dohalim's sake. but still, to be so close yet so far away...

however, it's a sacrifice he's willing to make for Dohalim's comfort. Morax can be... quite the surprising specimen in his true form. and it's not like he's accustomed to have this much attention on him to begin with, so... slow. slow is good.

but it doesn't stop Melqal from leaning in once more for another kiss, this time a little deeper. he takes a moment to feel out any sort of resistance from his other half; he feels none. maybe Dohalim is serious about letting them have their time together. but it's only a short moment before he pulls back again, not wanting to push boundaries that they shouldn't be toeing just yet]

Dinner should be soon, so we should start that tour with you and Dohalim.

[the idea of dinner soon after that does sound like a great idea; there's a small grin that creeps up on his face at the thought of the earlier conversation]

Speaking of which... Are you still rather uncomfortable around tentacled creatures?

[just being in Melqal's presence is soothing, and it brings with it an unhurried sense of peace. He's missed this for so long... and no amount of changes in features can put a dent in that relief, it seems.

It doesn't hurt that Dohalim himself is... rather beautiful, with sharp, royal features that warm and sweeten when he's comfortable - for what the elemental has seen of them, anyway. Moving slowly isn't so hard when he can be fascinated by all of their differences.

It's harder, then, when Melqal kisses him more deeply, though. With the passage of time, he's grown needy and wanting, and there's a deep regret that this is as far as is safe, right now.]

Mm. I'm a little excited to hear him talk about this place, and—

[and his thoughts are derailed by that question completely. Peering wide eyed at Melqal, his cheeks heat up immensely, mouth opening to respond only to stammer at first. Clearly, the answer is yes.]

I— do not be mean to me. [Morax puffs out a cheek at the grin on Melqal's face, head shaking.] You know full well why I do not like them... all slimy and thick and persistent... [He shudders a little with the memory. The things were probably just in their mating season, and he'd been terribly unlucky to get so ambushed, but...] and you just watched for so long-!

[in Melqal's defense, Morax had probably looked as horny as he had perturbed, given they had definitely found no shortage of weak spots on the man's body. And, of course, he'd never minded restraints before.]

[to be fair, Melqal had always been amused by flustering Morax, knowing full well he can get away with it. he has it down to an art, knowing exactly when to stop before the other is truly irritated, but until then, he'll poke the sleeping dragon, so to speak. he laughs heartily at Morax's reaction]

I helped, in the end! I had to; they were getting too handsy with you for my liking. [Melqal presses a kiss to the puffed out cheek] You're mine, after all.

[ah, he'd forgotten how possessive he could be when it comes to Morax, though he doubts even after all this time, that the entity minds. it isn't to say that it's not mutual, either, he knows he belongs to Morax. he couldn't think about giving himself completely to anyone else, after all. but, to punctuate his comment by sliding a hand down to Morax's ass, giving it a gentle squeeze. sure, he said he'd move slow but... he just couldn't help himself.

though, he does have to think about how strange this must seem to Dohalim. it isn't to say that the man himself is a blushing bride; no, he's had his fair share of liaisons in the palace; a perk of being a lord, after all, but this... is far from what he's used to, probably. but with their penchant fomore... risqué play, sometimes, there is that unconditional love. a love that hopefully Dohalim can feel someday. Morax always talks about his, Melqal's, bleeding heart, but behind those stone walls, Morax is the same. maybe it has something to do with the fact that he was the one who managed to erode said walls down]

[there's a familiar little hitch to Morax's breath when Melqal kisses his cheek and speaks that way, an aching hunger that sinks deep into his bones.]

You are so-- [oh. oh. that's a rough little groan when a hand squeezes his ass, and the elemental leans into Melqal without any hesitation. they can't do much, especially under the circumstances, but he doesn't make it easy, does he?] --wonderfully insufferable.

[Exhaling a sigh, he leans forward and presses his lips to Melqal's, just briefly.]

Terrible. We should go to dinner, lest we get too... occupied. We can speak later, Melqal.

[And then some, if he's lucky. It's been so long, and they really were such monsters together. Still, Morax wants to speak to Dohalim, so getting distracted is a problem right now.]

[it's nice to know he can still reduce an austere being such as Morax to nearly putty in his hands with a single touch; hearing that groan is almost like music to his ears. and if it were under different circumstances, he would absolutely have his way with Morax, and continue those teasing touches and squeezes. but, as it stands, the circumstances are very much unusual, so it'll just have to wait.

but he does lean in for one more kiss before he steps back, not wanting to make Dohalim uncomfortable with being so close to Morax. he lets out a light shiver at the sudden coolness in the air, but doesn't bother him for too long as Dohalim takes over again.

which, the look on his face as his smile fades, is one that's unreadable. it's not one of disgust for Melqal's and Morax's displays of affection, at least, but... maybe curiosity hidden behind something else? who knows. but he straightens out his clothing as he clears his throat, looking around the room]

...Are the accommodations and attire to your liking? I can have anything changed, if you would like.

[Morax is quick to shore himself back up, even if he doesn't want to. letting go of Melqal is difficult after so long, but there's a gentle warmth to his expression when Dohalim returns to the fore. any sense of discomfort or uncertainty is noted, if nothing else.

he may not know how to handle the man yet, but he certainly isn't regarding him with any disappointment.]

Ah-- yes, they're quite fine. Truthfully, I never thought much about the comforts of homesteads or cloth. Before, I would simply wear what was comfortable and easy to move in.

[which explains the loose pants and flowing robe, really. Dohalim may not know how he fights, but it'll inform some of the likelihoods. there's also a thoughtful hum that comes shortly thereafter, his arms crossing.]

... At least, after Melqal taught me that taking a form so close to 'human' would make others uncomfortable were I to remain naked. I always thought it rather silly, really, as I do not truly grow cold by any means.

[that's... not the only reason to wear clothes, and he understands that now, but still.]

[at the mention of Morax's preference of being nude, there's a slight tint of red that flushes Dohalim's cheeks. thankfully Melqal was able to convince him of being a little more... conservative when it comes to his state of dress. but he does have to wonder how their relationship came to be, and how they'd grown so close. perhaps a question to ask sometime in the evening]

Mm, yes, I can appreciate loose fitting attire as well. I find that most Renan clothing can be a bit... constricting. But, of course, Renans do love the clean cut lines of the Tunica Rene.

[it's reminiscent of the cut-and-dry culture that he'd grown up in; gods forbid that he ever questioned any of it. the crisp whites were the standard, and the most adventurous he'd seen anyone with their clothing were small bobbles and trinkets pinned to them tastefully, or small, barely noticeable splashes of colour sewn in. honestly, when he was passed down the regalia that had been in his family for as long as he can remember, he was surprised to see the splashes of blues, golds and greens. and despite the double layers of bottoms he wears, both are still loose enough that he can easily move around in. and the linens provide an airiness to them.

needless to say, Dohalim isn't a huge fan of the current fashion]

If you would like something a little looser, please ask, and I will get something else right away.

There is something very familiar to it.

[Morax either misses the tinge of colour on Dohalim's cheeks or, more likely, chooses to let it be. he's not doing it to embarrass him, after all - it's just a fact that means very little to the elemental.

as he considers, though, he inclines his head lightly.]

... Perhaps something a little more loose would be nice, yes. I do enjoy dark colours as well as white and gold. But... there's no real hurry for it.

[they have enough to do right now without worrying about the fashion right now. weight shifting, Morax glances to the door.]

Shall we start toward the... dining room? Is that still what it's called? I am not terribly hungry, but it seems like a sensible choice to continue conversing.

I shall have something for you at the earliest convenience, then.

[with a nod, Dohalim leads Morax to the door, opening it for him before they make their way down the hallway. the visible sky is now taking on a purple-pink hue, as the lights illuminate the halls. Dohalim's subjects are seen roaming around them, offering glances and smiles, ones that he offers back. it... is a rather comfortable environment through its austerity, seen by the people who are casually sitting on the chairs and couches, striking up conversation]

How would you rather be addressed? Would you prefer your name, or do you have a sobriquet to go by? [Dohalim reaches up to tap his chin gently in thought] If I could be honest, I'm sure that most, if not all of the people here do not know the names of the astral spirits, or that they exist at all.

[his voice is soft as to not bring attention to the conversation at hand, but enough that Morax should be able to hear him, still]

Ah. Thank you.

[at ease, Morax follows Dohalim without hesitation, taking in the surroundings and sky both. as night approaches, there's a familiar sensation of coolness, well beyond the gentle temperature indoors. it's something he's always noticed, perhaps because the sun and moon both do so much to affect the land itself.]

I... have been considering that for a time now. [it's a question he's not yet come to a proper answer for, if he's honest.] Before, it hadn't been much of an issue; those who knew what I am would hardly bat a lash at my existence, particularly with... with Melqal around.

[there's a pause there, as though he were going to say something else, but changed his mind. after all, the reality is probably that they feared him - Morax was not always known to be any sort of benevolent creature. the need to prove his prowess as a warrior and an elemental had been rare, but even so. he'd rather think it was their respect for Melqal that kept them quiet than blind fear in him.]

If you believe it will cause you no undue difficulty, I believe I will continue using Morax. Else... there are a few names I can recall, from the long ages prior to our meeting. I can choose one of the less... offensive ones.

Whatever would make you more comfortable.

[as they walk by, Dohalim shows Morax the different parts of the palace, and the different pathways and shortcuts to get him to different wings. he even briefly shows him the inside of the library if he so chooses to entertain himself in that way, mentioning that there may be some books and tomes from his and Melqal's time. Dohalim continues with the light chatter; it's honestly getting him to stop is the challenge. but he'll relay small details about the palace that he knows, down to the minutia of what plants and flowers are potted and why. which brings him to a point of curiosity...]

If you would allow me to ask... I must know. The legend in our family states that the reason why we have such an affinity for earth astral artes is because it was a gift bestowed by the spirits themselves. My question is, were you the one who blessed Melqal with this gift?

Morax is just fine, then.

[with that answered, the elemental is honestly quite happy to listen. even if it's mundane chatter, with little impact on Dohalim personally, what he chooses to talk about says a lot of things about the man. here and there, he'll interject with questions or commentary, only pausing when Dohalim asks about the gift his family carries.]

Ah... that. I... cannot say it's that simple. Although Melqal and I shared a great many gifts, his affinity for earth artes is ultimately what brought us together, and to my recollection it was not I who bestowed it. I had no trust in Renans in those days, and he worked tirelessly to overcome my vitriol. [his smile is soft as he speaks, and he inclines his head.] Perhaps, if I were to try to remember before then, I could answer the question with more certainty, but the past is... hazy.

I suppose, if the legend claims it to have happened around Melqal's time, perhaps it was his diligence that solidified the gift for the rest of his line. He and I would speak at length about them, and about how to weave an arte with energy in order to produce the least strain on myself and the world.

Come to think of it, I don't know what he did, after sealing me away. I suppose it could have been amid all that where the legend was solidified into history. Many did seem to hold him with the same regard as some unknowable mystic, though he could not have been further from that.

Yes, I've heard that as well. From what I've been told, I am name after him, as well, but... Clearly, I do not go by that name.

[maybe it's the expectation of doing great things like Melqal had done in the past, that he didn't want to have to live up to the namesake. as for what happened after Morax had been sealed away...]

However, I'm not even sure if the legend is speaking of his time in particular. I'd just come to a conclusion, with his and your... close relationship with each other, that it had been a blessing brought upon us by you. It seems that it only had been an assumption.

As for the legend of Melqal himself... It does seem that what little documentation of his life had stated as such. For a human to be able to calm the earth spirit itself, it only makes sense that those legends would come to be.

[for all that he doesn't think highly of himself, Dohalim does, at least, know where his skills are at its best. he thinks his own skills in wielding earth astral energy are impressive, but for Melqal to be able to bend them to his will, to lessen the strain of it on the elemental... it's quite amazing, really]

However, it does seem like history is as hazy as your memory. There are very few documentations of what he'd done after he sealed you away, if any. If the visions I've seen in my dreams are any indication, he--

[Dohalim pauses for a moment, though he isn't sure if it's him who's stopping that train of thought, or if it's Melqal. either way, he can't seem to continue with it. perhaps it's for the best, especially with his habit of speaking without any regard for others, sometimes]

--Ah. The dining room is this way.

[he leads him down the hall and through a doorway opened by those standing by it. hopefully the aroma of the roast set out for them is enough to distract the other from questioning him]

A name is a curious thing. Something people attach to, but... what they mean varies from person to person, indeed. If Dohalim is who you feel you are, then that is all that matters... I think.

[his lips curl as the redhead continues though, recalling back through the haze of his sealing to the beginning of his time with Melqal. to the days when his proverbial leash had been passed off to another Renan, for what had felt like the millionth time.]

It's not as difficult as the Rena would have you believe. We... aren't so different. Elementals like myself have our personalities, our conceits. Our decisions. To think that they saw him that way when all he did was treat me with a grain of respect...

[there's a laugh there, short and a little hoarse. if he knew Dohalim's thoughts on bending astral energy, too, he might have yet more to say. it's not that which catches his attention though. naturally, it's the pause at the end there, Dohalim speaking of visions and dreams and then...]

...

[and then what? his brows furrow at the faint unease left in the wake of those words, and not even the scent of a feast could pull him away from it completely. the only thing that keeps him from asking after that particular thread is his own question - is he ready to hear the end of that sentence? so soon after his return, Morax isn't sure he is.

so, despite the air of uncertainty that still clings to him, he tries to settle in at the table, choosing a seat nearby enough to keep his attention fully on Dohalim.]

You have quite the selection of chefs, by the scent. [this part is harder, as his certainty for what to talk about runs thin. small talk is fine, Melqal said, but Morax... is not that good at it. he's curious enough to follow any line of conversation, but coming up with one himself?]

Thank you. [he waits for Morax to sit before taking his own seat] The culinary team are some of the best chefs in the realm, in my opinion. A blend of skilled cooks from Lenegis who'd come to Viscint, and Dahnans who know the lay of the land and how the very soil can produce some of the most flavourful ingredients. Even our wine is made nationally.

[something that he, himself, had taken pride in being a part of the vinification process himself. it's almost as if it was timed, as someone comes to pour them the wine; Dohalim himself doesn't need to taste it before a glass is poured out for him. as a sample is poured out for Morax, in case he wants to try it before committing, and Dohalim has to wonder if he even drinks wine to begin with]

You do not have to try it, but if you were to, you'd find that the nose is a rather floral bouquet while the tongue holds notes of earthy oak, as well as dark fruit. Tannins are present in the forefront but have a smooth finish. A representation of what Elde Menancia has to offer, a true masterpiece of wine, if I do say so myself.

[as Dohalim goes on about the wine, Morax finds himself... almost enthralled. it does bring to mind Melqal, when the man would get talking about his passions. a shared trait, if exceptionally different in scope.

the smile it brings to the elemental's face is broad and warm, and he nods.]

I don't mind trying it. How could I, after such a glowing review? [his knowledge of vintners is certainly limited, but given a trail of tastes to follow makes it much more easy. and from the first sip, for him, it is a... more visceral experience.

after all, as a being of earth astral energy himself, he can taste and sense every piece of each bit of information. the reasons for the floral notes, the depth of the fruit, the health of the oak. it's something he hadn't really tried before, in his time with Melqal, but he certainly doesn't find he minds it.]

... I... find myself at a loss for words, save how it feels. [placing a hand on his chest, he closes his eyes.] The earth may have changed, but I can feel its deep appreciation for the reverence it has been shown.

I do hold a sense of pride for the realm. Perhaps it may be his influence, but I've grown... Attached, to Menancia.

[there's a soft smile on his face when he says that, as he takes a sip of his wine. he's not sure how much of the land has changed over the hundreds of years since Morax and Melqal had seen it, but his restoration efforts to bring it to some modicum of glory it had possessed before the last ruler had been arduous. but, like the peace among the people, it had been worth it.

their appetizers show up, a fresh salad with edible flowers; it seems like there's a theme to this dinner. perhaps it really had been Dohalim's plan to try to impress Morax, or maybe he truly does appreciate the land's offerings. either way, he waits for the other to start eating before he digs in himself]

Do you have any questions about the realm and how it is now? I can try to answer anything to the best of my ability.

I don't think his influence would drive you to be so passionate, truthfully. Not while retaining so much of your own agency, in any case. Plus, the foci of your interests are related, but actually quite different.

[It's a compliment, not an ounce of dismissiveness to the words. A reminder, too, that he fully intends to continue them as separate people - both with worthwhile pursuits and lives.

He speaks plainly, often between bites of food and praise for the same; if Dohalim had been intending to impress, he can consider himself successful.]

Mm. I fear I would keep you talking until morning with all of my questions... though I'm curious as to how countries interact, as current. I don't recall much about it from my time with Melqal, but the land seems... out of sorts, in many ways, at what I recall to be the edges of the country.

My other curiosities are more closely related to you, if I am honest - but I don't wish to aggravate any... discomforts.

[Dohalim chuckles softly; he knows he can be a bit of a chatterbox, so the invitation to talk about something he's interested in does sound rather appealing. however, when the topic falls on the other realms, he lets out a soft sigh]

In short, we don't. It seems the topography between realms have changed over the years, and with it, the borders as well. I am only vaguely aware that the other lords are in cohorts with each other, but I try to... Distance myself from them.

[he pokes at his salad with his fork for a moment, thinking. his way of thinking is certainly different than the others, and not wanting to raise many questions of his own rule, Dohalim had figured that he'd keep away from them. he's also not a fan of them trying to climb social ladders by trying to get in on his own social circle, being a noble in Lenegis, and whatnot (Almeidrea specifically). honestly, if they found out that he isn't nearly as ambitious as they are, he'd loathe to think of the ways they may come to conquer his land as well. and he can't have that]

From the few encounters I have had with them, some seem to be brutish in nature, and the others are just conniving. One is shrouded in mystery, but aside from that, I have no desire to be in their company.

As for the land itself, we have open boarders compared to them. Though, we don't see many visitors, to the point that when we do, some of the guards can be wary.

[he takes a sip of his wine again]

As for questions about me personally, if you would like to ask them, by all means. Whether or not I choose to answer... Do not be offended if I choose to remain tight lipped.

[He'd be lying if he claimed he was shocked, honestly. The lords - and Renans as a whole - have never been much for sharing. Their games of politics and intrigue are what had soured Morax for so long...]

In short, they've changed little, if at all. [He only sounds slightly disappointed, really.] It seems the most logical choice, considering your decision to deviate from their norm. And I have certainly noticed the guards' wariness.

[Not just those he would expect to be so, meeting someone who was literally sealed in a portal, but even here...]

It is your choice whether or not to answer questions. I promise I will do my very best not to pout too much-- the habit is rather... ingrained.

[because Melqal is a monster, really. Clearing his throat, Morax looks to Dohalim, considering his words.]

Aside from your vast knowledge of your country, what else do you enjoy, Dohalim? I'm curious how you spend what free time you may have.

[the very idea of seeing an astral spirit, the very embodiment of the magic Dohalim uses, some that could claim as a god among men, pouting is a thought that Dohalim can't fathom. to think that he could be reduced to such a... childish display... he won't lie, he kind of wants to see it.

as for the question on his free time... he's thankful for the short distraction as the next course of their meal is served. a cut up roast rappig, a delicacy he enjoys quite a bit. but it truly is short as they're soon left to their own devices again; he takes one more sip of his wine]

I... Do not have much free time on my hands.

[it's the short answer, of course. if he were to get into detail as to why, it would delve into topics he'd rather not talk about at the moment]

It is... Rather hard to allow myself when there is so much I must do to improve Menancia and the quality of life for all. But... For those rare times, I enjoy divulging in the arts. Poetry, specifically, and...

[he trails off, mind wandering to the violin encased in his room, untouched for years. every so often, he thinks about pulling it out, but... it is something he doesn't deserve to enjoy, anymore]

[for a moment, Morax wonders if he didn't stumble completely, once more. The hesitation is hard not to notice, even with a new dish being served... and it's a dish he certainly doesn't seem to mind, nor show any real hesitation in eating (unsurprising, perhaps, given what he is). The rich flavor and delicate mouthfeel are enough to distract, in those moments, but only for that short time.

He's almost ready to dismiss the question entirely when Dohalim finally speaks. It's not... much of an answer, but it is there. And his words prompt a weak smile, Morax's gaze not quite piercing in its curiosity.]

No, but surely there must be some time.

[even an Astral spirit like himself knows the value of rest, perhaps more keenly even than a human. Energy is finite, and the toll of it on a mortal's body...]

One cannot burn endlessly, though. Surely, you've someone who can see when you're struggling...? [It's almost too quiet to hear, words murmured half to himself. The idea of Dohalim continuing on and on, as though the whole world is at once upon his shoulders and also keen to leave him behind... it's too sad, isn't it? Even for someone so determined to die.] Ah? Poetry and...?

[that, he prods on gently, curiosity plain and warm. There are many arts, after all, and he can't decide which would be Dohalim's preference. Better to ask.]

[he does catch the muttered words and he almost has to laugh at it; he's so used to putting up walls and veneers to prevent people from seeing the inner turmoil in him. Morax doesn't know just how true Melqal's comment on Dohalim's loneliness is. he strives for perfection, and was taught from a young age not to show emotions. perhaps he's always been used to putting more than he should on his own shoulders, but Morax does have a point. he just has to wonder when exactly he'll burn out.

there's another short pause, before Dohalim shakes his head]

Just poetry.

[there's a desperate part of him that wants to yell out "music", to tell the other how he adores it more than anything in his life. it pains him every day, not playing his violin, as his fingers yearn to dance along the frets of his violin's neck, to drag that bow along the strings to create that perfect, quivering tone.

but he just can't. so he throws himself in his work instead. because, if he does so, then he doesn't have to think about wanting to play his music again]

Though, I do have an appreciation for other arts, too. Painting is one. To be able to capture life's splendor with splashes of colour on a canvas... It's fascinating. The culinary arts are another. For the rare time I was allowed in the kitchen, I've learned to cook some of the finer delicacies the chefs offer.

[Morax has more patience than he ever did, but there's a limit. Such a blatant lie... he exhales a faint, displeased noise, but doesn't comment immediately.

He can narrow down those two additions, though. It shears off a surprising amount of the arts, though he'd still be guessing blindly which Dohalim is pretending he doesn't care for.]

... they are worthy and intriguing pursuits. Perhaps you will indulge me in your personal cooking, someday. It would be a fair apology for lying about your pursuits rather than telling me you don't want to tell me.

[... definitely only do much patience. But at least he's able to keep his voice mild; his intent is only to infirm Dohalim that he's not gotten away with that lie.

And it's notable, too - he could probably ask Melqal about it and at least get the answer, but that wouldn't be satisfying. Especially now, when it's obvious there's something specific that keeps him from being honest. Morax can't help but find his mind wandering onto why he'd hide something like that, though.

There are things he himself would rather not talk about, but things that brought him warmth and comfort?]

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